Impetus’ French editor Jean-Pierre Thiesset spoke exclusively to Reims captain Rachel Corboz.
Above: Rachel Corboz(right) in action for Reims at Olympique Lyonnais on 2nd August. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Rachel Corboz was born on May 1, 1996, in Mobile, Alabama, USA to French-born parents, Michel and Christine.
Rachel has a dual citizenship French and American. Her father was a semi-professional footballer in Grenoble, France. Rachel grew up in Green Brook Township, New Jersey and has a brother, Mael, and a sister, Daphne both older than her; they both play football too.
Her brother started playing at university in the USA and now plays in Germany. Her sister also started football at university. She and Rachel then moved to play for Fleury, France before going on to play for Paris FC, France in D1 Arkema.
Rachel spent four years with the Georgetown University women’s soccer team where she scored 34 goals in 88 appearances. She received several distinctions in Big East Conference including Midfielder of the Year during her second year and her senior year. Rachel has been previously selected to train with the United States at U-18, U-20, and U-23 age groups.
Rachel signed for FC Fleury in June 2018. In her first season with the club, she made 19 appearances. She then moved to Reims in D1 Arkema, in June 2019. She played 15 games in 2019-2020 season, and 18 games in season 2020-2021 in which she delivered two decisive passes and scored three goals. She was appointed captain of Reims for the beginning of the 2021/22 season.
Rachel also prepares her future and follow her studies with a Masters in Adaptation to Climate Changes.
Above: Rachel Corboz. Photo: JK Sikorsynski, Stade de Reims.
Interview:
Jean-Pierre Thiesset (JPT): What is your best position to play and which other positions could you play?
Rachel Corboz (RC): My preferred position is as an offensive midfielder, but I can play also off centre on the right or on the left side even if I am right-handed because I have both feet.
JPT: Who/what inspired you to become a football player?
RC: Above all, my brother and my sister who are three years older than me, who played both football and I wanted to follow my sister and do like her. Also, at home, we watched a lot of football with my family and that must have influenced me.
JPT: Why do you play in France rather than in USA?
RC: I prefer the game style that we play in Europe and in France. I find it more technical and tactical, and it suits me better.
JPT: Who is your role-model if you have one?
RC: The player I like is Dzsenifer Marozsan. First because she plays in the same position as me and that in my opinion, she is the best both technically and tactically in this position.
JPT: What is your greatest challenge on the pitch?
RC: I am rather technical, and not very physical, so my biggest challenge on the field is to resist to physical impacts.
JPT: What is your greatest challenge off the pitch?
RC: I would like to be even more sure and confident in myself. It is also a challenge on the pitch elsewhere (laughs).
JPT: Who are your closest teammates?
RC: I am very open and friendly, and I am close to everyone.
JPT: What do you like to get up to off the pitch?
RC: I like to read in English, and practice yoga. I read a bit of everything but mostly novels. Now I am reading “Le comte de Monte-Cristo”. I also devote a lot of time to my studies.
Above: Rachel Corboz. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus
JPT: What makes Reims such a great club to play for?
RC: We have the same facilities than the men and it really is a big plus. We are a united team, all the girls get along well, there are no small groups, everyone talks to everyone and that I think is really a plus in a team because when there starts to be muddles or differences, this is where a team can have problems. It has been like that for three years and it is something that I really appreciated when I arrived in Reims. We also have coaches who are really invested and who really want us to be ambitious as a team; as we do better and better each year, it is good for the team, and I hope it will continue like this (laughs).
JPT: What is your preferred animal?
RC: I love cats. I just had a little kitten.
JPT: What are your preferred foods?
RC: I like everything a bit, but my favourite thing is my mother’s Vegetarian Lasagne.
JPT: What kind of music do you like?
RC: I did not listen a lot of music, but I like alternative music. I like Taylor Swift.
JPT: What is your main quality?
RC: My kindness. I think it is very important to be nice to everyone, even to people you do not know. I was raised by parents who showed me the importance of having this quality with all the people you meet.
JPT: What do you need to improve in your game?
RC: I must improve my speed and my explosiveness. I also must improve my heading because I do not like to make headers (laughs).
JPT: Is there a message you would like to give to your fans?
RC: Thank you very much for supporting us and I think it is important that you continue to support us. I think the only way for women’s football to grow is through the supporters who come to games and those who watch the games on TV. Keep supporting us, there have been more and more spectators since my first year here and it would be nice to see more and more people at the games.
Ben Gilby rounds up a busy week in the game Down Under. We hear from Matildas head coach Tony Gustavsson on the announcement of the Australia squad to take on Brazil. Elsewhere, the ramifications of Lisa De Vanna’s allegations roll on. The key people at Wellington Phoenix who announce their coaching team and first player and Brisbane Roar reveal another new signing.
Gustavsson Announces Squad For Brazil Friendlies:
Above: The Matildas squad line up prior to kick off against their friendly in Dublin against the Republic of Ireland last month. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Matildas Head Coach Tony Gustavsson has announced Australia’s 23-player squad to take on world number seven Brazil next week in Sydney.
The two nations have met 19 times previously since their first meeting in 1988 with Australia leading the head-to-head with 10 wins to Brazil’s eight. There has been one draw.
The nations will meet twice, first on Saturday, 23 October and then Tuesday, 26 October at Parramatta’s CommBank Stadium as they return to action on Australian soil. The matches mark the first time an Australian senior national team has played at home in almost 600 days, with their last match against Vietnam in the Tokyo 2020 Women’s Football Tournament Qualifiers.
The last time the women’s national team played at the CommBank Stadium in November 2019, they set their attendance record when they beat Chile 2-1 in a friendly in front of 20,029 fans and it is possible that this record could be broken again next week.
With the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in India less than 100 days from kick off, the two-match series is invaluable preparation as Gustavsson and the team continue to build towards the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023
Above: Ellie Carpenter, pictured in action for the Matildas in Denmark, is back in the squad for the friendlies with Brazil. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
“Preparation is number one,” Gustavsson said. “I said that going into the September camp when we played against Ireland, we changed from ‘performance mode’ from the Olympics to ‘preparation mode’ [ahead of India 2022 and Australia/New Zealand 2023].”
“That doesn’t mean that we are going to step on the field not trying to win – we are always going to try and win when we play every game – but we are not going to try and win at the expense of our preparations
“We can’t shy away from tough challenges and tough games. We need to look at this as a long run towards the World Cup in ‘23.”
The October window will feature the return of fan favourites including full back Ellie Carpenter, midfielder Emily van Egmond, and forwards Kyah Simon and Caitlin Foord, to the Matildas’ squad.
Midfielder Chloe Logarzo has been sidelined due to a long-term knee injury, while injury has also ruled Elise Kellond-Knight (knee), Hayley Raso (shoulder) and Emily Gielnik (toe) out of selection contention.
Above: Western Sydney Wanderers’ Bryleeh Henry receives her first call up for the matches to be played in her club’s own district. Photo supplied to Impetus by: Football Australia.
Several new national team players have retained their place in the squad including September’s debutantes Angie Beard, Charli Grant, and Clare Wheeler. Meanwhile Western Sydney Wanderers product and Young Matildas forward Bryleeh Henry has received her first call up to the senior national team.
“We need to be patient,” Gustavsson added. “We can’t expect a debutant coming into the camp to be ready the first time they come in, but we need to expose them to the Matildas’ environment to get them ready for ‘23 and to scout them in our environment, to see who bounds and thrives under that high international tempo that we have in the Matildas.”
“We are going to keep looking for new players, and either invite them to the training environment to see them there, or for some players that make a good impression in the training environment, also make sure that they get some game time.”
“It is all about now who can reach their full potential come ‘23. It’s not just about who is the best, it is about who can become the best, so we are looking at ‘23 in all the decisions that we are making right now,” he said.
The forthcoming games with Brazil could see a number of milestones recorded. Centre back Alanna Kennedy is in line to become the 11th Australian woman to join the 100 Club. She would join current Commonwealth Bank Matildas’ Clare Polkinghorne (136), Elise Kellond-Knight (113), Emily van Egmond (108), Kyah Simon (101) and Sam Kerr (100). Kennedy would be the 4th player this year to reach the century milestone.
Captain Sam Kerr is two goals away from equalling the Australian goalscoring record. Currently the Matildas all-time leading goalscorer (48 goals), Kerr is chasing Socceroos legend Tim Cahill (50) for the Australian international goals record.
Name
Position
Club
Caps (goals)
Mackenzie Arnold
Goalkeeper
West Ham United
27 (0)
Angela Beard
Back
Fortuna Hjørring
1 (0)
Ellie Carpenter
Back
Lyon
50 (1)
Steph Catley
Back
Arsenal WFC
92 (3)
Emma Checker
Back
Melbourne City
8 (0)
Kyra Cooney-Cross
Midfielder
Melbourne Victory
10 (0)
Caitlin Foord
Forward
Arsenal WFC
92 (21)
Mary Fowler
Forward
Montpellier
16 (4)
Charlotte Grant
Back
FC Rosengård
1 (0)
Bryleeh Henry
Forward
Western Sydney Wanderers
0 (0)
Alanna Kennedy
Back
Manchester City
99 (8)
Sam Kerr
Forward
Chelsea
100 (48)
Teagan Micah
Goalkeeper
FC Rosengård
7 (0)
Courtney Nevin
Back
Melbourne Victory
4 (0)
Clare Polkinghorne
Back
Vittsjö GIK
136 (11)
Jamilla Rankin
Back
Brisbane Roar
0 (0)
Karly Roestbakken
Back
LSK Kvinner
7 (0)
Remy Siemsen
Forward
Sydney FC
0 (0)
Kyah Simon
Forward
Tottenham Hotspur
101 (26)
Emily van Egmond
Midfielder
Orlando Pride
108 (23)
Clare Wheeler
Midfielder
Fortuna Hjørring
1 (0)
Lydia Williams
Goalkeeper
Arsenal WFC
92 (0)
Tameka Yallop
Midfielder
West Ham United
97 (11)
Current Matildas Join To Make Statement:
Above: The Matildas at the Tokyo Olympic Games in the Summer. The squad came together to release a statement about Lisa De Vanna’s allegations of last week. Photo: Football Australia.
Following the allegations made by Lisa de Vanna last week about her time with the team from 2001-2019 (see: https://impetus885775742.wordpress.com/2021/10/09/australian-football-round-up-2/), the current contracted Matildas joined together make a statement following about the current team culture and stance against this type of behaviour.
“We acknowledge the seriousness of Lisa’s allegations about the past and we empathise with her for not feeling like she could come forth earlier. We will work with Football Australia, the PFA and Sport Integrity Australia to ensure that all current and future players feel comfortable, safe and able to report instances of inappropriate behaviour, in a timely manner. There must also be a trusted process to deal with these complaints.
“We all – from our most capped players to our most recently capped – would like to reassure to our fans, family and friends that today we have a strong professional, inclusive and supportive culture that does not condone any of the behaviour mentioned within the numerous media articles about historical incidents. Our strong leadership ensures our cultural norms are appropriate for today’s professional sporting environment.
“As a group, we represent the values reflective of Australia and that includes acceptance and inclusivity, regardless of sexuality, ethnicity or culture. It was disappointing to observe conversations inferring the group is not accepting of differences, especially given the diversity that exists within our current leadership group on all those fronts, let alone across the broader team. We would also like to re-iterate the professional standards that surround the current team today. Women’s football has dramatically grown in recent years and so has our professionalism and standards.
“As a team, we have spoken at length about the allegations and are all hurt by what has occurred. We hold this team close to our hearts and for many, this team has been a safe haven. It has given us strength and purpose throughout our careers. We are together like a family in this, from our oldest to our youngest player, and the difficulties we’ve faced in the last week have only made us stronger as a group.
“We stand supportive of athletes who are able to come forward and report instances of inappropriate behaviour in their respective environments, and therefore welcome an independent review into this matter.”
The impact of this statement appears to have divided supporters with a number taking to social media to state their feeling that the statement actually serves to worsen the situation as they construe the quotes to be of an “everything’s OK” angle rather than coming out strongly in support of those who had such unsettling experiences in the past.
Football Australia & PFA Condemn Social Media Abuse of Matildas:
On Wednesday, the Sydney Morning Herald reported that Football Australia and Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) have reported social media trolls for posting “disturbing” and “abhorrent” abuse towards Matildas players – including the sharing of revealing images of two players without their consent.
Football Australia have referred the relevant posts to Twitter and the police with the PFA reporting an image posted to the eSafety Commissioners Office.
“We know the impact that social media abuse can have on people,” PFA co-chief executive Beau Busch said.
“We have been in constant contact with current and former players and the impact of targeted and coordinated abuse is taking an enormous toll on them.
“These bullies and trolls lack any semblance of humanity and have sought to deliberately target current and former players with abhorrent and vile abuse through a coordinated and relentless campaign.
“This garbage has no place in society and we will continue to refer matters that are criminal in nature to the police and work with the authorities to ensure the perpetrators are held accountable.”
Football Australia stated: “Many people from within our football community have approached us concerned about the disturbing activities of some social media accounts that are engaging in inappropriate social media posts.
“We are closely monitoring the activities of these accounts, including for potentially defamatory comments, and have reported and will continue to report activities of concern to the relevant authorities.”
Referees Strike Action Poses Question Marks Ahead of Season:
With little more than six weeks before the big kick-off, ABC Australia reported on Tuesday that A-League referees are still without contracts.
Professional Football Referees Australia (PFRA)’s statement on Tuesday said they had informed Football Australia that their referees would not officiate any games after “more than three months of discussions and efforts to resolve several topics”.
The PFRA said referees had been given “no direction, coaching/instruction and no fitness coaching” over the past three months.
“We are now just weeks out from the start of the season, and the referees find themselves in a position without any form of coaching and/or preparation,” the statement said.
At the present time, it is still unclear what impact this will have on the start of the A-League Women season on 3rd December.
FA said the arrangements for elite referees “represent the final changes that need to be implemented” in response to the new governance model in relation to the professional leagues.
“Football Australia recently confirmed a new structure for referees and today advertised for several new positions, including a Head of Refereeing to lead the new department,” the statement read.
“Football Australia can confirm that it is also holding discussions around contractual terms with A-League referees.”
Phoenix Announce Experienced Coaching Staff And First Player:
Artwork: Wellington Phoenix
Wellington Phoenix and New Zealand Football (NZF) are announced the inaugural coaching staff for the Club’s first ever A-League Women’s team and confirmed widely held beliefs that the squad will largely be made up of very young, development players.
In consultation with NZF, Gemma Lewis has been chosen as the Wellington Phoenix A-League Women’s Head Coach, with Natalie Lawrence serving as Assistant Coach for the 21/22 Season.
Lewis and Lawrence will join Canberra United as the only all-female coaching staff in the A-League Women’s competition, with Lewis being the fourth female Head Coach named in the 10-Club league – the first time in A-League Women’s history that the competition has boasted that number.
Wellington Phoenix General Manager, David Dome said that he believed that this selection will come as no surprise to many, with both coaches highly regarded as elite in New Zealand and amongst the best qualified to lead this country’s first professional women’s football team.
“We are extremely pleased to have Gemma and Natalie leading the charge with the country’s first ever professional women’s football team our Phoenix women’s squad this year,” said Dome. “No doubt it’s going to be a huge learning season for us and the squad given the players we are looking at, but it’s also a chance for coach and players to show the rest of Australasia what they can do.
“We expect to have a very young, development-focussed team with the majority of players new to the professional ranks – so it’s a great opportunity for women’s football in New Zealand as we prepare for FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023, and we hope that Kiwis unite behind Gemma, Natalie and this squad as they make history for New Zealand on the big stage.”
Lewis joins the Phoenix with an outstanding pedigree as both a player, coach and mentor. Her playing career saw her appear in the English women’s game with Cardiff City as well as international appearances for her native Wales, before transitioning into coaching via the elite NZF pathways.
She has served as assistant coach of the bronze medal winning New Zealand U-17s side at the 2018 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Uruguay, and as Football Ferns assistant coach at the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup in France.
Lewis also has experience coaching in the National Women’s League – winning the title with Auckland Football in 2017 – and in 2018 was selected by FIFA to be part of an elite coach mentorship programme, which saw her mentored by Japan women’s team head coach Asako Takemoto.
For the past two years, Lewis has overseen the development of some of the most promising young female players in the country as manager of the Future Ferns Domestic Programme (FFDP) at NZF, alongside her role as head coach of the U-20 women’s national team. Lewis says that this is a massive moment for women’s football in Aotearoa New Zealand.
“It’s really exciting to be leading the inaugural Wellington Phoenix A-League Women’s side. This side is such an important part of the women’s pathway in New Zealand, especially in the lead up to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup on home soil,” says Lewis.
“I’m especially looking forward to giving young players their first taste of professional football as we announce our first signings over the coming weeks and prepare for our first game on December 3.”
Lawrence moves into the Wellington Phoenix Assistant Coach position following a successful stint as FFDP and U20’s Assistant Coach and Coach Educator/Mentor at New Zealand Football, where she led the implementation of both the Talent Development Programme and the Girls Talent Acceleration Programme. She has earnt a solid reputation as a Women’s football development and youth coach, thanks in part to her experience in the USA, Canada – as the Vancouver Whitecaps REX U16s Head Coach and Academy Head Coach – and New Zealand; the latter including Head Coach of the Capital Football squad in the National Women’s League and Team Wellington Youth Head Coach.
“I’m delighted to be a part of this inaugural Wellington Phoenix side, and be part of this massive moment for women’s football in New Zealand,” says Lawrence. “The opportunities that having this team offers the game in New Zealand are huge, and I can’t wait for us to kick off the first campaign.”
New Zealand Football CEO, Andrew Pragnell believes that Lewis and Lawrence are the perfect tandem to help lead this new team in its inaugural year.
“This is an exciting moment for football in New Zealand, both confirming the first coaching team for the Wellington Phoenix A-League Women’s side and having coaches who have qualified through the New Zealand Football coaching system,” says Pragnell. “Gemma and Natalie have done a brilliant job across the domestic and international game and will make a great team to take charge of the first professional women’s side in Aotearoa.”
Lewis and Lawrence are now working on finalising the squad for the Phoenix A-League Women’s side to compete next season, with the first player announcements expected to be made public in the coming weeks.
The squad is expected to travel to New South Wales in the near future as they prepare for the start of the A-League Women’s 2021/22 Season in Australia; with Wellington Phoenix taking on Western Sydney Wanderers on opening night, Friday 3rd December 2021 as part of a double-header with the Phoenix A-League Men’s side.
Artwork: Wellington Phoenix
Lily Alfeld, who had an outstanding season with Perth Glory last time round has become the historic first ever player for the A-League Women’s newest club.
Kiwi-born Alfeld, 26, started all 12 matches for the Glory in 2020/21 and make a league-leading 53 saves. As one of seven New Zealand players in the A-League Women’s competition last season, Alfeld joins with fellow Kiwi Claudia Bunge as one of only 14 players to play all 1080 minutes across the season.
Known as an acrobatic shot stopper, Alfeld’s achievements in her maiden campaign saw her named as a nominee for the PFA Player of the Month Award for December/January, while also winning the Save of the Week Award on two straight occasions.
Prior to this, Alfeld had spent four seasons at Louisiana State University in the United States, before returning home in 2018 to be part of NZ Football’s Future Ferns Domestic Programme (FFDP) – which helps young Kiwi women make the jump from domestic football and into their professional careers.
Alfeld says that she is ‘beyond stoked’ to be joining the Phoenix for its inaugural season.
“I’m thrilled to get this opportunity, I grew up watching the men’s Phoenix team and back then, I never really thought it’d be an option for me; obviously I’m just so excited it’s happening, to be able to get to play professionally at ‘home’ is pretty special,” says Alfeld.
Reflecting back on her first season in the A-League Women’s competition, she says it was a ‘rough season’ at times but she enjoyed the experience.
“It was an amazing opportunity and my first go playing professional football, so there was a lot to learn in that season and at times it was pretty tough – but overall such a positive experience. I think the season ahead (with the Phoenix) will be kind of a similar situation, in that a lot of the girls in the squad are quite young and are going into this as a development experience – but I’m excited to be going into this season knowing what I’m going to face and with some A-League Women experience under my belt.”
Alfeld says that she is excited to be part of history, as a member of New Zealand’s first professional women’s football club.
“To be part of the first, inaugural season (with the Phoenix), it’s a chance to create a bit of history so I would love to go out and have a positive start for what will hopefully be many seasons to come; it’s a role I’m very honoured to get a chance to do and I can’t wait to get started.”
Wellington Phoenix Women’s Head Coach, Gemma Lewis says that Alfeld will be counted on to bring her A-League experience into a squad primarily made up of young players new to the professional football space.
“She will bring a lot of stability and leadership to this team and we know the younger players will look up to her, as she has that professional experience and knows the A-League Women’s competition. We’re very excited that Lily is our first signing for the Phoenix Women’s side and we’re keen to announce the rest of the squad over the coming week.”
Alfeld and the rest of the NZ-based Wellington Phoenix squad will soon make their way to New South Wales, Australia as they prepare for the start of the 2021/22 A-League Women’s season. The club’s first ever match in this competition is scheduled for 5pm AEDT, 3 December – opening night – against Western Sydney Wanderers.
Roar Add Another Young Starlet To Squad:
Artwork: Brisbane Roar.
Brisbane Roar has secured another determined young talent for its A-League Women’s squad with the signing of defender Annabel Haffenden.
The 19-year-old, who has family ties to Queensland, joins from Victorian side Alamein FC, having previously spent time training with Melbourne City.
The move brings her closer to family members based on the north side of Brisbane and gives the former National Training Centre (NTC) player a chance to establish herself at the top level.
“I’m super excited to have signed my first professional contract with Brisbane Roar,” Haffenden said.
“I’m really grateful for the opportunity Garrath (McPherson, head coach) has given me and I can’t wait to get started and meet my new team-mates.”
Haffenden featured in every game for Alamein and chipped in with three goals before the NPL Victoria season shutdown due to the pandemic.
“I played for Alamein under Kat Smith this season and that’s been a really great experience for me,” she said. “I feel like I’ve developed a lot under her this year. I’m quite competitive. One of my strengths is my physical capacity. I just want to work really hard for the team and give as much as I can.”
Head Coach McPherson said he was looking forward to seeing Haffenden show her ability on the A-League Women’s stage.
“Annie has been through the elite youth pathways in Australia and is ready to take the next step in her football,” McPherson said.
“She has been around national league environments in recent years down south and we are thrilled that we have been able to bring her to Queensland. She is a powerful, explosive defender who has shown an incredible commitment to relocate so she can represent Brisbane Roar this season.
“Annie has had wonderful mentorship in Victoria this past two years and I am excited to be able to continue to support her football development in the upcoming A-League Women’s season.”
Ben Gilby rounds up a busy week of Champions League, Damallsvenskan and Elitettan action plus some transfer news from Sweden.
Above: Hammarby’s Stockholm derby with AIK attracted a record Damallsvenskan crowd of 18,537. Photo: @_OBOSDamallsv
UEFA WOMEN’S CHAMPIONS LEAGUE NEWS:
BK Häcken travelled to Bayern Munich for their second successive devilishly tough Champions League Group D tie on Thursday night. They suffered a nightmare start as Bayern went 2-0 up in the first 11 minutes thanks to two goals from Lea Schüller. It remained that way until deep into the second half when further strikes from Linda Dallmann and Jovana Damnjanović sealed Bayern’s 4-0 win. Häcken are bottom of the group after two games having lost previously 3-0 at Olympique Lyonnais who top the group with maximum points. Bayern Munich are second on four points with Benfica, who Häcken face in back to back encounters next, on one point.
DAMALLSVENSKAN:
The Stockholm derby between Hammarby and AIK drew a record crowd for a women’s club match in Sweden of 18,537 to the Tele2 Arena. The vast majority of the spectators went home happy as Hammarby kept their faint hopes of a top three place alive with a comfortable 4-1 win. Madelen Janogy put the home side in front with 20 minutes played. Three goals in seven second half minutes ultimately sealed the game. Alice Carlsson doubled Hammarby’s lead before Honaka Hayashi immediately reduced it to 2-1. Yet, Berglind Thorvaldsdottir ultimately decided the game when she put the hosts 3-1 ahead. Emma Jansson’s penalty with nine minutes left further extended the green and white’s lead.
Above: Hammarby players thank their record crowd for support in their derby win over AIK. Photo: @_OBOSDamallsv
BK Häcken, who got back in the title race last week were immensely frustrated to drop points at home to Vittsjö after the game ended goalless in front of 663.
Rosengård took advantage to pull five points clear of Häcken after they came from behind to record a 2-1 win over rapidly fading Linköping. The visitors went ahead after just nine minutes thanks to Uchenna Kanu. The lead lasted for just under 20 minutes when Olivia Schough’s free kick levelled the scores. Sanne Troelsgaard’s strike three minutes from half-time earned the points to the delight of the 1,586 fans.
KIF Örebro won the battle of two sides in lower mid table when they saw off Djurgården 1-0 thanks to Wilma Ohman’s goal after just five minutes in front of 934 supporters.
Above: Nellie Karlsson, whose goal secured a first Damallsvenskan win of the season for Växjö. Photo: Smålandsposten
The battle of two of the bottom three sides – Växjö and Piteå, went the way of cellar dwellers Växjö who, in doing so, picked up their first win of the campaign with just three games to go. Nellie Karlsson’s strike after 52 minutes earned the victory which kept their exceptionally slim survival hopes alive for another week to the joy of the gathered 294 fans.
Kristianstads kept their hopes of third place alive after they defeated Eskilstuna United 2-0. Anna Welin and Miranda Nild hit second half goals in front of 492 spectators. This win cut the gap between the two sides to just three points.
Table From: Svensk Fotboll
Round Twenty Fixtures:
Linköping v Växjö
Vittsjö v Hammarby
Djurgården v Kristianstads
AIK v BK Häcken
Piteå v Rosengård
Eskilstuna United v KIF Örebro
ELITETTAN:
Above: Monica Bah, whose two goals set Umeå on course for the Elitettan title. Photo: Västerbottens-Kuriren
Umeå IK clinched promotion to the Damallsvenskan and are virtually assured of the title after a 6-2 thrashing of in form third placed IF Brommapojkarna. In front of an impressive crowd of 588, Umeå raced into a 3-0 lead with just nine minutes on the clock thanks to goals from Olivia Holm, Lisa Dahlkvist and Monica Bah. Mathilda Johansson got a goal back on 34 minutes, but within 120 seconds, the hosts re-established their three goal advantage after Vilma Koivisto’s strike. Klara Andrup brought Bromma back to within to goals just after the break, but a second goal from Bah six minutes into the second period settled matters once and for all. The win puts them eight points clear at the top of the table with four games to play. IFK Kalmar went four points clear in second after a routine 3-0 win over Jitex Mölndal. Ohphelia Medhammar put Kalmar ahead just before the quarter hour mark with Tabby Tindell continuing her recent red hot goal scoring form to make it 2-0 just before half-time. Minnie Asperot netted the third with 24 minutes left which ensured the majority of the 148 fans gathered went home happy. IK Uppsala’s continuing slump continued as lost 2-0 at Lidköpings FK. Dorothea Gruelich and Elizabeth Pechersky were on target in front of 100 spectators. At the foot of the table, second bottom Borgeby FB kept alive their slim survival hopes after a dramatic 4-3 win at home to cellar-dwellers Bollstanäs SK. Simone Edefall gave the visitors the lead after 18 minutes, but two goals in a nine minute period put Borgeby ahead thanks to Saga Ollerstam and Erica Welin. Malin Engdahl levelled in first half stoppage time. The twists and turns continued in the second period as once more Borgeby went ahead with Nova Karlsson’s strike but were then pegged back by Linda Niemenen. The decisive goal came fifteen minutes from time from Sofia Anker-Kofoed to the delight of the 95 fans. Bollstanäs are relegated.
Above: Sofia Anker-Kofoed’s goal ensured a vital win for Borgeby FC at the bottom. Photo: Avdo Bilkanovic/Imago
Latest Results: Umeå IK 6-2 IF Brommapojkarna, Borgeby FB 4-3 Bollstanäs SK, Lidköpings FK 2-0 IK Uppsala, Sundsvalls DFF 0-1 Alingsås FC United, Morön BK 1-2 IFK Norrköping, IFK Kalmar 3-0 Jitex Mölndal, Mallbackens IF Sunne 4-2 Älvsjö AIK FF
Next Fixtures: IK Uppsala v IK Brommapojkarna, Jitex Mölndal v Umeå IK, Mallbackens IF Sunne v Sundsvalls DFF, Borgeby FB v IFK Kalmar, Älvsjö AIK FF v Alingsås FC United, Bollstanäs SK v IFK Norrköping, Morön BK v Lidköpings FK.
Table From: Svensk Fotboll
NEWS ROUND-UP:
Tove Enblom has extended her contract with KIF Örebro. The new deal runs until the end of the 2022 season.
Hammarby’s Jonna Andersson has left the club to join Cypriot club Apollon Ladies.
Jean-Pierre Thiesset was pitchside in the Groupama Stadium EXCLUSIVELY for Impetus to report and photograph on the UEFA Women’s Champions League Group D game between Olympique Lyonnais and Benfica.
Above: Melvine Malard’s sensational overhead kick goal which put Lyon 3-0 ahead over Benfica. Photo exclusively for Impetus by: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.
Olympique Lyonnais wrapped up a comfortable 5-0 win over Benfica in front of 4,115 spectators in the Groupama Stadium in the UEFA Women’s Champions League Group D clash.
As Wendie Renard and Griedge MBock were not in the squad for this game due to injury, their places in central defence were taken by Kadeisha Buchanan and Amandine Henry, as for the last D1 Arkema game.
Above: Selma Bacha named player of the match. Photo: Jean-Pierre Thiesset for Impetus.
Lyon started the match by putting a lot of pressure on Benfica but without being able to score. Around the half-hour mark, the home side began to build more intensity, which enabled them to play higher on the field which resulted in two goals in as many minutes.
Above: Kadeisha Buchanan (on ground) puts Lyon 1-0 up. Photo exclusively for Impetus: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.
First, after 29th minutes, Kadeisha Buchanan scored after a corner from Catarina Macario was badly cleared by the goalkeeper, and she took advantage. Then, in the 31st minute, Daniëlle Van De Donk scored after being played in by Melvine Malard.
Lyon continued to dominate the rest of the first half without increasing the score despite a lot of opportunities, especially at the last minute, when Catarino Macario sent a free-kick onto the post and Kadeisha Buchanan’s header hit the bar.
Above: Daniëlle Van De Donk (far right) makes it 2-0 for Lyon. Photo exclusively for Impetus: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.
Lyon started the second half stronger than the first half and Benfica players suffocated under their pressure and their quick game. After 10 minutes in this second half, Lyon had already increased the score by two more goals. A wonderful overhead kick goal was executed by Melvine Malard on a cross from Catarina Macario who shortly after added a penalty herself, for her seventh goal in seven games.
Above: Catarina Macario makes it 4-0 from the spot. Photo exclusively for Impetus: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.
Lyon continued to dominate the game and six minutes later, Kadeisha Buchanan flew over everyone to score a header for her second goal on the night from Selma Bacha’s free-kick. Ada Hegerberg replaced Macario at the 67th minute for her first home game in almost two years to a great ovation from the fans who were very glad to see her back. Hegerberg showed that she was already fit to help her teammates to win and caused trouble to the Benfica defenders during the last 15 minutes including almost scoring ten minutes after coming on.
Above: Kadeisha Buchanan leaps higher than the Benfica defence to make it 4-0. Photo exclusively for Impetus: Jean-Pierre Thiesset.
Statistics of the match:
Lyon: 63% of possession, 547 passes (86% successful), 33 shots (20 on target), 13 corners.
Benfica: 37% of possession, 326 passes (79% successful), 7 shots (5 on target), 1 corner.
Above: Aerial action from Huddersfield Town’s away win at Sheffield FC in the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier. Photo: Jessica Hornby.
Huddersfield Town Women recently rose to third in the FA Women’s National League North following a convincing 3-1 win against West Bromwich Albion Women. This victory also marked an end to a frantic fixture period with three games in eight days – with the Terriers picking up wins in all their games. But how have Huddersfield fared in the league since we last caught up with the West Yorkshire side?
Town opened the season with a goalless draw away to Nottingham Forest, which saw goalkeeper Bethan Davies making an all-important penalty save in the dying moments of the game. The Terriers travelled to Middlesbrough next and picked up their first win of the season with new signing Ria Montgomery scoring alongside Katie Stanley and last year’s top scorer Laura Elford. This game also introduced Northern Ireland international goalkeeper Becky Flaherty to the team, who impressed on her league debut.
Above: Huddersfield Town take on local rivals Brighouse Town in a local derby. Photo: Jessica Hornby.
Just three days later Huddersfield welcomed local rivals Brighouse Town to the Stafflex Arena, under the floodlights. Despite being a newly promoted side, both teams had actually met last season in the Women’s FA Cup with the Terriers progressing through to the next round following a penalty shootout. That day the game ended 1-1, and this match was no different with both sides sharing a point after a feisty contest. Brittany Sanderson opened her account for the season.
Huddersfield were back on the road again when they faced Loughborough Lightning at the Holywell Sports Complex. Town ran riot and won the game 5-1 with Elford bagging a brace, Sanderson adding to her goal tally plus Kate Mallin and Lucy Sowerby scoring their first goals of the season. This result meant Town Women went through August unbeaten in the league.
Above: The Terriers had plenty to celebrate during their 5-1 win at Loughborough Lightning. Photo: Jessica Hornby.
September saw Town’s fortunes change with a crushing 4-0 defeat to Burnley away and a narrow 3-2 defeat to league-leaders Wolverhampton Wanderers at home. Some positives were found in the latter performance with the Terriers dealing Wolves’ first conceded goal in the league when Sowerby latched onto a through ball beating the defensive line within the first two minutes of the game. Sanderson scoring her third of the season on the stroke of half time.
In contrast October has been a perfect month for Huddersfield (so far) with all three games played finishing in wins. The Terriers started the month with a 5-1 thrashing of Stoke City at home, which saw new boss Steve Appleton face his former side. Mallin and Sanderson both scoring a brace, with Serena Fletcher scoring her first goal of the season.
Above: Frustration shows after a narrow loss for Huddersfield Town against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Photo: Jessica Hornby.
Just four days later Town travelled to Sheffield FC and continued their winning streak with a 6-0 victory under the floodlights. This clean sheet was only Town’s second of the season and Flaherty’s first. Sanderson continued her goalscoring form with another brace, meanwhile Elford came off the bench to score two goals in five minutes. Mallin and Montgomery were the other two scorers on a successful evening.
This past Sunday (10th October) Town won their third consecutive game. A 3-1 win against the Baggies meant Huddersfield rose to third in the league table, the highest position they had reached all season. Elford followed her previous brace with another two goals – the first coming just 14 seconds into the game! Meanwhile, Fletcher scored her second of the season directly from a cross to secure all three points for the visitors.
A natural pause in the schedule sees Huddersfield not in league action until Halloween, when they face on-form Derby County at home. Appleton will be hoping his side can continue their winning streak into November as they slowly climb up the league table.
Above: Huddersfield Town pictured prior to their opening game of the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier game away to Nottingham Forest. Photo: Jessica Hornby.
Above: Pride Park’s Annie Laight (9) is foiled by a combination of the Colts ‘keeper and defender when the two sides met at Wirksworth in April 2021. Photo: Shaun Hardwick
This weekend, Pride Park host Wirksworth Colts in the Derbyshire Ladies League Division One at Moorways (Sunday, 1.30pm). Both teams have had reasonably stable squads in recent seasons but Wirksworth have strengthened since last season, signing several former SK Vipers players after the Buxton based team folded shortly before the start of this season.
The Colts have made a strong start to the season, keeping clean sheets in their first two games to secure a narrow win by the odd goal against Belper Town, and running riot with six against Mickleover. Although their winning start was halted when coming up against Draycott Victoria in their third game, they fared the best of the current champions’ five opponents to date in a 1-3 loss.
Above: Otty Baker takes on a Wirksworth player when the two sides met at Moorways in October 2020. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.
With just three games played, Wirksworth lie fourth in Division One, with six points, one place ahead of Pride Park who have three points from their four games. Wirksworth have scored eight goals in their three games, with Vicki Cook leading the way with three goals, ahead of Georgia Williams with two. The Pride have found the net an 15 times in their four games, with Summer Evans scoring six and Annie Laight scoring five, whilst conceding 14 goals. The trick for Pride Park is to tighten up at the back without sacrificing their attacking potency – they’ll be hoping to see striker Evans return from illness to face Wirksworth on Sunday.
The teams have met on 12 occasions in cups and league, most memorably in the 2017/18 season when they completed the season with four consecutive fixtures – the first two games being the League Cup and Challenge Cup finals at Matlock, with Wirksworth running out winners in extremely close fought games by scorelines of 3-1 and 2-1 respectively. Pride Park bounced back the following week with a resounding 7-1 win in the league, and the final game in the series was a rather freakish 6-6 draw to conclude the season.
Above: Pride Park’s Tash Allderidge (5) gets a header in on the Wirksworth goal when the two sides met at Moorways in October 2020. Photo: Shaun Hardwick.
In recent seasons the teams have been fairly evenly matched and have played some entertaining and close games, which was also the case when they met in pre-season.
Over the 12 games the teams have played, Pride Park have won six, Wirksworth winning four and two have been drawn, and there has been a total of 72 goals scored. At the risk of jinxing this Sunday’s game, there has never been a goalless game between the sides and with an average of six goals per game, it should be another entertaining encounter.
Impetus partner club Ashford Town Middlesex have started the Tier Five London & South-East Premier with six wins from six – averaging over six goals a game in the process. Assistant Head coach Matthew Aumeeruddy, captain Liss Down and striker Ashley Cheatley, sponsored by Impetus all spoke to Ben Gilby about their campaign so far.
Above: Ashford Town (Middx) in the huddle at home to Millwall Lionesses on the opening day of the season. Photo: Ben Gilby.
In this second of a two part feature, we discuss the London & SE Premier campaign so far, the progress of Ashford’s other teams and the players’ role models growing up. To catch up on the first part of the feature, click on this link: https://impetus885775742.wordpress.com/2021/10/07/red-hot-tangerines/
BEN GILBY (BG): Who were your own role models growing up? Are you both aware that you are potentially role models yourselves to young girls who watch Ashford Town play?
LISS DOWN (LD): My footballing role models growing up were Thierry Henry, David Beckham and Kelly Smith. I just used to watch them all and just be in awe of what they could do while playing and just try to replicate it in every game I played, not that it came off too often!
In terms of inspiring anyone else, I just try and be myself and give advice to younger players where I can. There are some exciting players coming through though, with our B team doing well and U16s and U13s enjoying their football.
ASHLEY CHEATLEY (AC): Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham. I was obsessed! I wanted to do everything they did, more so Ronaldo, the way he drives at players quickly its frightening and the finishes are just unreal, it makes my heart race.
I’m not sure how I personally can inspire the next generation of Ashford players, I just hope they come to our games and see what kind of club this is and makes them want to play their football here.
BG: Focusing on the London & South-East Premier now, have the opposition surprised you in any way – are the main challengers for the title the same as you thought pre-season or has anything changed?
Above: Matthew Aumeeruddy points the way ahead for Ashford Town. Photo supplied by: Matthew Aumeeruddy.
MATTHEW AUMEERUDDY (MA): I’ve said many times that this division is one of the most competitive out there with the quality improving year in year out. I would say the usual contenders such as Dulwich Hamlet and Dartford will be strong again this season. I also believe teams such as Fulham, Saltdean United, Worthing and New London Lionesses will also fancy their chances.
LD: I haven’t really been surprised with any of the teams so far this season, we are familiar with a lot of the teams in our league. Every game is a tough game, we know that, I think New London Lionesses are a well organised team and Dartford is always a tough game for us. Teams are around where I thought they would be at this point in the season, it is difficult to tell though as there are differences in the number of games played.
AC: I would say a couple results here and there have surprised us, but that’s football for you and anyone can win on their day.
I mean the main challengers are Dulwich Hamlet, Dartford and even Saltdean are always up and around there, but we take every game as it comes and make sure that when we face these teams we take the three points, however every game is a challenge and we set out to win every one.
BG: Two of your wins this season have been away from home against Saltdean United, who many expected to be challenging at the top of the table, and Dartford who were second behind you. Winning those games on the road speaks volumes. What were the keys behind that success?
MA: Our resilience and refusal to panic during difficult moment of the game. Whenever you go away to teams, you anticipate you will have to deal with some form of pressure from the opposition and so the ability to remain strong in those moments are key. The other thing is making sure that we stick to our principles of play and adapting to the situation that presents itself.
LD: You know what you are going to get when you play these teams away from home, you need to be on your game or you will know about it come the final whistle. Winning these games were vital for us as they play a huge part on where you finish come the end of the season. I feel the key behind the success is our preparation for each of the games, knowing what to expect. Individual brilliance from our forward players, hard work and determination.
Above: Ashley Cheatley on the ball for Ashford Town this season. Photo: Ben Gilby.
AC: COME ONNNN! What results for us! We knew points here were always going to be tough to pick up but we all went out knowing what we needed to do and got the wins we deserved.
We know how important each game is and with the current run we’re on, the levels of confidence and winning mentality are only growing.
BG: Ashford are more than just about the first team – how have the other teams been getting on so far?
MA: So far so good. Our B Team are experiencing a different challenge this season having been promoted to the Greater London Women’s Football League Division One South. We have had a lot of changes with the B Team as many players have now headed off to university all over the UK as well as changes within the management team. We are looking to align both groups to ensure a smooth pathway between the first and B’s. Furthermore, The U13s, U16s and Wildcats are starting this month as well so it is certainly a busy time!
BG: With success, obviously comes attention from other clubs for your players. Ashford seem to have a special connection between the players and club. Ultimately, is that one of the secrets to your success?
MA: Yes, without a doubt. Like I said previously, retention has been key in order to build success in the long term. There is a sense of family, and everyone feels they belong here. Everyone is driven towards the same goals!
BG: Liss and Ash, tell us a bit about what you like to get up to off the pitch and what jobs do you do?
Above: Liss Down fires in an effort for Ashford Town against Highworth Town in the FA Cup recently. Photo supplied by: Liss Down.
LD: I work for Medical Billing & Collection, who invoice on behalf of private doctors, I’ve been there about 13 years now. Outside of work and off the pitch I’m normally playing five a side with my friends, watching football of some sort or watching a series on Netflix.
AC: I work for Premier League side Brentford as a ticketing technical support executive. Going back to Ashford for a minute though, I think it’s also fair to say that there’s no reason as to why the club cannot go all the way to the top, if we attract and sign more top players as we go who have the same mentality, anything is possible.
Above: Hannah Roberts of Pride Park wins a tussle against Belper Town to escape with the ball. Photo: Shaun Hardwick Photo
The weather was fine and the pitch was in good condition for the first home game of the season in the Derbyshire Ladies League Division One. With Summer Evans unavailable through illness, Bleu Lewis-Wilson moved into an attacking role, with Beth Thompson switching from full back to midfield.
Belper made a good start and enjoyed the best of early possession in the opening few minutes, but Pride Park grew into the game, which settled into a sparring contest for twenty or so minutes – with few clear chances created but those that did come were either off target or not really connected with fully, so the goalkeepers weren’t really tested.
Izzy Wilsoncroft, returning after missing two games had made a good start including a couple of forays forward but had to come off after 25 minutes, to be replaced by Hannah Kwiatek – her first outing since an ankle injury at the end of June – to fill in at right back.
Above: Tash Allderidge (5) shows poise in possession for Pride Park against Belper Town. Photo: Shaun Hardwick Photo.
Shortly afterwards Maja Znamirowska came on and had an immediate impact, receiving the ball after good build up play, and slotting a precise ball through the Belper back line for Annie Laight to take a touch out of her feet and lash a shot across the ‘keeper and into the far side of the net.
It was typical of how close the game was that the lead only lasted four minutes, before Belper struck back to equalise. However, with half-time approaching Pride Park’s lead was restored when another good move resulted in Annie Laight receiving the ball on the edge of the area and laying it off neatly into the path of Maja Znamirowska, who took the ball in her stride, waited for the keeper to come out and slotted the ball into the bottom left hand corner of the net.
It was to be expected that Belper would up the ante after the interval, and our concentration and application needed to be at its highest in readiness, so it was disappointing that only four minutes after the restart it was all square again at 2-2.
Just after the hour Hannah Kwiatek came off, as her efforts after a long lay-off and lack of pre-season started to catch up with her, so a reshuffle was required with Beth Thompson dropping in at right back and Bleu Lewis-Wilson into midfield, with Jess Page coming on up front.
Above: Bleu Lewis-Wilson gets a shot away for Pride Park. Photo: Shaun Hardwick Photo.
With around quarter of an hour to play Belper must have thought they had taken the lead when a looping shot seemed to be dropping in over Jade after a deflection, but Jade showed superb agility and reflexes to adjust and somehow managed to push the shot up and over the bar.
A couple of minutes later there was a chance at the other end; Maja Znamirowska was clear through and one-on-one with Emma Varnam in the Belper goal, who dived at the striker’s feet and diverted Maja’s shot. She may not have known an awful lot about it, but it was nevertheless a good save.
Shortly after that Sophie Ayton stayed down after rolling her ankle in a challenge for the ball, and we all held our breath. Fortunately, she was able to continue after treatment.
There were four minutes left to play when the game’s decisive moment came. Belper attacked down the right and put in a cross from the wing. Sophie Ayton advanced to try to clear on the half volley under challenge from a Belper player, but the ball bounced up awkwardly and hit her arm. The Belper players had been appealing incessantly throughout the game for handballs – most, if not all, of which had been imaginary – presumably in the belief the law of averages says they would have to get one eventually.
Above: One of several close attempts thwarted by Belper Town goalkeeper Emma Varnam. Photo: Shaun Hardwick Photo.
There was an inevitable crescendo of appeals, and the referee duly obliged. There’s no real argument, however, that it was a handball on this occasion, and a penalty, although a case could be made for a foul on Ayton as she attempted the clearance – if only judging by the angry red weals left by studs raked across her knee from the challenge as she attempted the clearance. It’s typical of the Pride Park player that she made no real fuss and just got up and got on with it.
Alice Faulding took the penalty for Belper and made no mistake with a firmly struck shot to Jade Howell’s left.
It was a bitter pill and with only four minutes left not much time to salvage anything – but within a minute Pride Park were inches away from grabbing an equaliser, as Maja Znamirowska was denied again by an outstretched hand from Varnam in the Belper goal.
There was still time for Pride Park to win a corner in the dying moments, sending everyone upfield. Tash Allderidge delivered another terrific ball in, which resulted in a melee in and around the Belper six yard box, as defenders tried to hack the ball away and attackers tried to find the scoring touch. There were at least two headers/shots parried away by the ‘keeper, before a shot from Rachel Weaver was blocked, the rebound falling to Hannah Roberts on the edge of the area. Rather than go for power she lifted a delicate shot up over the crowd of bodies in front of her, and with the goalkeeper stranded saw her shot rebound off the top of the crossbar and out for a goal kick. It would have been a terrific way to mark her 50th appearance but, more importantly, would have salvaged a point.
It was, more or less, the last action of what had been an enthralling and entertaining game described on Belper’s social media after the game as “a fantastic advert for the game at this level with both sides working to play football”. We can only second that.
It was telling that Belper also named their ‘keeper, Emma Varnam as their POTM, and we would have no cause to disagree with that either, as a string of excellent saves by her – including one that struck her in the face – ultimately made the difference.
Despite the disappointment of another defeat we can take encouragement from our build up play and the chances we created in a game that was extremely close fought, and which could have gone either way. Another close and competitive game is in prospect next Sunday, when Park host Wirksworth Colts at Moorways (1.30pm).
Above: Ellen White wheels away to celebrate her equaliser for Manchester City. Photo: Reuters.
The local derby between City and United has a lot riding on it. City come in after four rounds of the FAWSL with three losses on the trot and a single win, on top of being knocked out of Champions League before the group stage. United on the other hand are in a much better position with three wins and a single loss however they’ve never beaten City in their history in the WSL.
The drums are beating for Gareth Taylor and more people are coming for his head. It’s critical they win today.
The first decent attack is from City with a pass pushed down the left to Lauren Hemp who wins the foot race to the ball and with a single touch crosses to Janine Beckie. Her shot to the top left connects with the outstretched hand of Mary Earps who deflects it out.
City continues the attack when a cross from the right comes to Hemp’s head and is pushed towards goal with some interest. Maria Thorisdottir heads it away safely as Earps dives behind her unnecessarily. For my money, Hemp is one of the most exciting players in the WSL. She’s everywhere, doing everything, causing havoc and integral to every goal for City.
Another attack is launched by Hemp when she drives in past Ona Batlle from the left to shoot but the shot is far too high and sails into the stands.
An attack by Leah Galton, who has had a couple of offside incursions into the box, ends up on the right with a throw in. The ball comes to Katie Zelem who passes to Kirsty Hanson who shoots. Karima Benameur Taieb has to jump slightly but has it under control for United’s first shot on goal and the first time she’s troubled after 32 minutes.
A couple of minutes later a ball comes to Galton on the left and she controls it. As she does, Georgia Stanway comes in, studs up and straight into her thigh. Galton goes down clutching her leg. Stanway has put her full weight behind it and tumbles in the background. She realises what’s happened and starts apologising as the ref comes towards them. She pulls out a red card and Stanway is off and City are down to ten players. Gareth Taylor seems to be complaining but there’s no doubt that deserved a red card. Stanway does some stupid things at times and this was definitely one of them. City have looked stronger in the first 35 minutes so it remains to be seen how much this will affect them.
Above: Khadija Shaw celebrates after putting City ahead. Photo: Getty Images.
Turns out, not much. About a minute later, Hemp evades the defence and passes to Caroline Weir. She passes back to Keira Walsh who sends it back out left to Demi Stokes. Stokes crosses and it lands right in front of the box allowing Kadeisha Bunny Shaw to run on to it and head it to the bottom right corner, leaving Earps to watch it go by her for the first goal of the match. Manchester United go up 1-0.
Another attack by Hemp sees her dribble it right into the goal around Batlle before passing back but there’s no one around to capitalise and it goes back to Alex Greenwood. She shoots from the top of the box but Earps sees this one coming and is able to punch it away safely.
United launch a bit of an attack in the box and Jill Scott clears the ball directly into Hemp’s face. It was a decent kick so that’s gotta hurt but she comes back on OK.
In another brilliant attack, seconds before half time, Stokes sends a long ball up the left to Hemp. She brings it down, avoids Batlle and comes into the box. Instead of shooting herself, she crossed and Filippa Angeldahl slides in but can’t direct it and the ball is out. Heading into the second half, city looks more organised, has a little bit more possession and has more shots on goal but United aren’t out of this yet.
Shortly after coming back on the field Ella Toone takes a crack at goal but Alex Greenwood places herself in harms way and the ball deflects out for a corner. It’s taken short and cleared.
Once again Hemp is involved after jumping on to a clearance, sidestepping a couple of players and shooting. Earps gets a hand to it to stop the goal.
Back up the other end again and Hannah Blundell slips Toone a pass. She aims to the right post and Taieb has to make a diving save.
Just before the 60 minute mark, goalscorer Bunny Shaw is off to be replaced by Ballon D’or nominee, Ellen White.
At 66 minutes, Lucy Staniforth comes on to replace Hanson.
Blundell sends a perfectly weighted pass to Galton on the left. She runs onto it and into the box and Jill Scott executes a brilliant sliding tackle for a United corner. Zelem’s corner is headed away by Scott, who’s doing the hard yards in defence.
A Thorisdottir-Blundell-Galton combo scores another corner which is taken quickly by Zelem. She takes it short to Toone who flicks it towards goal. Staniforth backheels it past a surprised Earps and levels the score 1-1. United are jubilant, none more so than Staniforth who can’t believe her luck.
Above: Alessia Russo (23) is mobbed after putting Manchester United 2-1 ahead. Photo: Action Images via Reuters/Molly Darlington
Minutes later, Galton is on a solo breakaway but her shot is wide to the right of goal. The goal has lit a fire under United and straight away they are back on the attack. Blundell brings it down the left, passes to Toone and gets it straight back, crosses across the top of the box to Alissia Russo, she stumbles but recovers as Weir arrives but somehow manages to turn and get a shot away that skims the right post and gets past Earps to hit the back of the net. There’s elation in crowd and on the field as the score goes to 2-1 Manchester United.
During the celebrations Jess Park has come on to replace Angeldahl.
A big goal clearance by Taieb sees Park run onto it and do a long range strike for what must be her first touch of the match. Earps gets a hand to it and pushes it onto the top post for it to rebound back into the path of an onrushing Ellen White who buried it in the back of the net. We’re level once more at 2-2 after three goals in short succession. The punters are getting their money’s worth today in this thriller.
Above: Joy unconfined after Ellen White levelled for Manchester City. Photo: Jan Kruger/Getty Images/FA
There’s a heartstopper for the United fans as Hemp’s cross is headed across the goal by White but it passes safely across the front of the goal and out eventually.
At 84 minutes, Jackie Groenen is substituted for Hayley Ladd. And with 2 minutes of regular time left Laura Coombs is on for Weir.
United continue to apply pressure and get a couple of corners but can’t convert them. There’s four minutes of extra time as Beckie gets a yellow for an overenthusiastic tackle on Staniforth. Staniforth takes the free kick that floats into the box to be headed out by Hemp.
Galton gets to the corner kick but it must have deflected off a city player as another corner is awarded. Next corner also goes to Galton but she heads it out.
In the dying seconds Batlle guides a ball to the far post from the far right but Taieb jumps up to capture it safely under immense pressure. The whistle blows and both teams secure a point from this memorable derby with the final score 2-2.
Its been a week of big stories in the women’s game in Australiaas Lisa De Vanna and others lifted the lid on abuse and bullying within the game. Elsewhere, we hear from 11 signings announced in the A-League Women and the six clubs. Ben Gilby has all the news.
Lisa De Vanna and Rhali Dobson Lift Lid On Abuse and Bullying
Above: Lisa De Vanna has revealed some appalling experiences she suffered throughout her career. Photo: Molly Darlington/Getty Images.
In an article published in the Sydney Daily Telegraph on Wednesday, Australia legend Lisa De Vanna made explosive allegations of indecent assault, sexual harassment, bullying and grooming within Australian soccer.
Within the article, De Vanna said:
“There needs to be consequences. There needs to be accountability. I have seen cultural problems at all levels throughout the years – from men and women – and girls coming through need to be brave, and also the girls that have been through this also need to be brave and know they are not alone.
“It’s a sensitive topic and it takes a brave and courageous person to speak up. Have I been sexually harassed? Yes. Have I been bullied? Yes. Ostracised? Yes. Have I seen things that have made me uncomfortable? Yes.”
She then details one experience from 2001 when she was 17 years-old with the Young Matildas when several of her team-mates pulled her down to the ground – an incident witnessed by former Matilda Elissia Carnavas who has spoken publicly this week to support De Vanna’s experiences.
In the same article, another former W-League star Rhali Dobson also revealed that she was the target of “predatory behaviour.”
Football Australia issued a statement in response to the allegations, stating:
“Australian football takes a zero-tolerance approach to any conduct which breaches the standards and values expected of people involved in the game. To that end, we encourage anyone to bring forward their concerns through Football Australia’s formal complaints process under the Member Protection Framework, with the knowledge that any such matter will be taken seriously and investigated thoroughly.
“While it is not appropriate to discuss individual cases, we have met with Lisa De Vanna and heard her grievances, and can confirm that the specific allegations made public were not raised with us in that meeting. We have no knowledge of what steps, if any our predecessor organisation, Soccer Australia, undertook in 2001. In the event that Lisa chooses to lodge a formal complaint through the appropriate channels, we will be in a position to investigate and, if appropriate, act accordingly. The same process is open to Rhali Dobson and other former players and staff to formally bring forward any claims.
“Over and above Football Australia’s formal complaints handling protocols, we have also been engaging with Sport Integrity Australia (SIA) to develop an additional process for independently investigating allegations of a historical nature as they relate to former players and staff – such as Lisa and Rhali. We will announce the joint initiative with SIA once the details have been finalised.”
Jets Announce Key Retention of Taren King and Signing Of Young Keeper:
Artwork: Newcastle Jets
Defender Taren King has re-signed for Newcastle Jets ahead of the upcoming 2021/22 A-League Women’s Season.
King returns to the Club after featuring in all 12 matches last season in what was her first with the Jets after joining from Canberra United.
The 24-year-old has made 34 appearances in the A-League Women’s competition, and Coach Ash Wilson believes her experience will prove vital.
“It’s pleasing to be able to re-sign Taren this season,” Wilson said.
“She is an experienced defender who reads the game well and has a competitive mentality. Her leadership qualities, on and off the pitch, have been asset to the team environment, and she will bring further stability to our back line, enabling us to build on principles and partnerships as we work toward achieving our goals.”
King said; “I’m excited to continue the journey as a group and see what we can achieve this year. I’ve returned to the Club this season because I feel as though we showed some really positive glimpses at times but never really got into our full stride.
“I’m hoping to get a positive season of football under my belt again, and make some improvements in my personal game.”
Artwork: Newcastle Jets.
Newcastle Jets further strengthened their squad with the signing of young goalkeeper Georgia Boric on Thursday.
Boric has represented Australia as part of the Junior Matildas and has previously spent time as part of Canberra United but has yet to make her league debut.
The 23-year-old is excited for the challenge. “The opportunity to compete for a position in the A-League Women’s competition is really exciting to me,” Boric said.
“I’m excited to step back into the professional scene and push myself outside my comfort zone. I hope to make my debut in the league, and to add to the team environment and culture, driving my teammates to work as a unit and reach our goals.”
Coach Ash Wilson spoke of her anticipation to see the young goalkeeper join the squad. “Georgia is an exciting prospect having going through the National Youth system. As well as having desirable technical qualities, she is motivated to achieve and loves a challenge. We expect her to bring that to the team and football environment.”
Reds Sign Shay Evans:
Artwork: Adelaide United.
Adelaide United have signed forward Shadeene ‘Shay’ Evans for the forthcoming A-League Women 2021/22 season.
A product of the famous John Moriarty Football initiative, who are charity partners of Impetus, (see https://impetus885775742.wordpress.com/official-charity/) Evans has also been a member of the Future Matildas and has represented the Young Matildas.
The 20-year-old Marra woman made her A-League Women debut with Sydney FC in January 2019 and scored her first goal the following season against Melbourne Victory.
Evans has spent the offseason in the NSW Women’s National Premier League with Northern Tigers where she has netted five goals in 12 appearances.
Speaking about joining the Club, Evans, said: “It means a lot to me to be playing for Adelaide United. I’ve been training hard and can’t wait to get on the pitch with my new teammates and have a fantastic season.
“I’m proud as well of the special connection between Adelaide and my mentor, John Moriarty. I’m excited to be moving forward with my football career at a time when women’s football is growing so much around the world especially in the lead up to the Women’s World Cup 2023 in Australia and New Zealand.”
Adelaide United’s A-League Women Head Coach, Adrian Stenta, said: “Shay is one of the most promising players in the country. She has some experience in the A-League Women competition before, as well as with the Young Matildas, and will add quality to our final third.
“We’re delighted to have her join the squad and I believe she can have a breakout year for us because of her determined mindset.”
Born in Borroloola, a remote community in the Gulf of Carpentaria, Northern Territory, Evans was the inaugural scholarship recipient of John Moriarty Football (JMF), Australia’s most successful and longest-running Indigenous football initiative. JMF was co-founded by Yanyuwa man John Moriarty, the first Indigenous footballer selected to play for Australia.
Moriarty said: “Shay began training with us when she was just 12 years old and playing football barefoot on the school oval in our program. Our coaches could immediately see she had natural talent and a love of the game.
“Scouted by former Matildas coach, Alen Stajcic, Shay won her JMF scholarship to Sydney at 14 to study at Westfields Sports High School and undertake intensive football training and mentorship.
“She has worked hard to graduate from Year 12 and play in the A-League Women, as well as serve as Vice Captain of the Young Matildas. She won a scholarship to study at the University of New South Wales and we’re thrilled she is now signing with Adelaide United.
“This is a perfect next step in Shay’s football career and we are immensely proud of her.”
Moriarty has a special connection with the Adelaide football community. Moriarty’s football career began with South Australian First Division teams Port Thistle, Port Adelaide, and Adelaide Juventus, as well as a summer season with Adelaide Croatia. He represented South Australia 17 times and is recognised in the Football Australia Hall of Fame.
Victory Announce Goalkeeping Duo:
Artwork: Melbourne Victory
Melbourne Victory have revealed the identities of their goalkeepers for the new season after re-signing Casey Dumont and Melissa Maizels ahead of the 2021/22 A-League Women’s season.
Dumont returns to the squad for the upcoming campaign after spending 2020/21 on the sidelines with a ruptured Achilles tendon.
The two-time A-League Women’s Champion has made over 103 appearances in the league, notching 35 clean sheets in her domestic career and playing a crucial role in the Club’s 2018/19 Championship season.
Maizels has also re-committed to the Club for the upcoming season with the goalkeeper deputising to Gaby Garton during the 2020/21 Championship campaign.
A-League Women’s Head Coach Jeff Hopkins said he was delighted to lock in his goalkeeping stocks for his side’s title defence.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Casey back to the squad for the upcoming season and know she will bring a level of experience and leadership we will need to go back-to-back,” Hopkins said.
“She was with us every step of the way last season and to have her back on the pitch – leading our defensive line – will be invaluable to us and the goals we have set this year.”
Dumont was also excited to be returning to the squad after making a full recovery.
“Watching from the sidelines last season was tough for me but I was proud of what the team accomplished and I have the hunger to achieve even more success with the squad this season,” Dumont said.
“Jeff and his team have supported me since I arrived at the Club and to be back between the sticks for Melbourne Victory shows the faith they have in me to deliver on the pitch.”
Melbourne Victory will continue their pre-season preparations ahead of the Round 1 clash against Adelaide United on Sunday 5 December.
Crofts Heads For Western Sydney:
Artwork: Western Sydney Wanderers.
Western Sydney Wanderers confirmed the signing of midfielder Ashlie Crofts for the upcoming A-League Women’s campaign.
Crofts made her debut in the domestic competition in 2019 where she scored on her debut with Canberra United.
The agile midfielder has spent the last two seasons in the nation’s capital and is this season set to play for her hometown club for the first time in her career after plying her trade at Blacktown Spartans for close to ten years.
Head coach Catherine Cannuli welcomed the Western Sydney local to the club. “Ashlie is a very proud Western Sydney girl and we’re delighted to welcome her to the club,” said Cannuli.
“Having watched Ashlie during her time at both Canberra and Spartans, we know what she can bring to the team this season and she understands how important it is to represent our region and community.”
Crofts said she was delighted to play for the club she has passionately supported over the years. “Western Sydney is my home, I’ve grown up here, played my junior football in the BDSFA competition and have played for Blacktown Spartans for almost ten years. I had a Wanderers membership and went to watch the team every week at the old Pirtek Stadium.
“There is still plenty for me to learn, especially off some of the older, more experienced players. But as a local, I’m hoping to bring a sense of community and what it means to represent Western Sydney to the club.
“Cath (head coach Catherine Cannuli) is a coach that I’ve always wanted to work with and I’m just excited to get started.”
Roar Add Two More To Squad:
Artwork: Brisbane Roar.
Brisbane Roar has brought in two further players with the announcement of prolific forward Meaghan McElligott and defender Jessie Rasschaert.
Versatile Western Pride captain McElligott returns to the top tier of Australian football after spending a season with Canberra United in 2018. Having starred locally for the likes of Gold Coast United, Souths United and Logan Lightning before and after that experience, McElligott said she had long targeted a chance to pull on the orange shirt.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to play for Brisbane, being the Queensland side,” McElligott said.
“Having played up here for six or seven years in the NPL, it’s a whole new level of pride to play for Brisbane Roar and definitely something I always wanted. When Garrath [McPherson] offered me the opportunity it was a no-brainer. I’m super excited and keen to play alongside girls that I know, and I think it’s a really exciting time.
“It’s cool to see the local talent get rewarded and hopefully we can use that Queensland focus to our advantage.”
Appointed captain at Ipswich-based Pride this season, McElligott has scored 18 goals across all competitions including five in the club’s run to the Kappa Women’s Super Cup final.
“This season being captain out at Pride has taught me a bunch of leadership skills I probably didn’t know I had in me. I’ve really enjoyed the position I have out there,” she said.
“I definitely think there are things now that will just come naturally to me. In a team environment, everyone can be a leader in their own way. I’m keen to bring my own flair but I’m sure there are other people who can lead the team in different ways.”
Head Coach McPherson said: “Meaghan has been scoring dozens of goals each year in the NPL Women’s competition. She has a killer instinct in front of goal that has previously been acknowledged with involvement on the national stage.
“The staff are all really excited to work with Meaghan, supporting her in taking her game to the next level this season.”
Artwork: Brisbane Roar.
Jessie Rasschaert has signed on for the upcoming campaign after spending the past two seasons with her hometown team Canberra United.
The centre-back relocated to Queensland earlier this year and quickly established herself as one of the state’s premier players through consistent performances for Gold Coast United, culminating in a call from Roar Head Coach Garrath McPherson.
“I was pleasantly surprised when Garrath got in touch,” Rasschaert said.
“Moving from Canberra to the Gold Coast and settling into a new side, a new NPL competition, was a bit daunting but I think I’ve found my feet. This opportunity now is a fantastic chance for me to grow as a player and be part of a team that has established itself in past seasons as being really strong and competitive. I always strive to do my best and improve, and I’m excited to be part of the team.”
Rasschaert, a former NPL Women’s Player of the Year in the ACT, joins Gold Coast team-mate Ayesha Norrie on the Roar roster for the 2021/22 season.
Roar head coach Garrath McPherson said: “I am excited to have a player of Jessie’s experience join our backline for the upcoming season. She is a tall, mobile defender who has who has been one of the standout performers in the NPL Women’s competition since moving here from Canberra.
“Her positivity and winning attitude will have a great impact on our environment and we are all looking forward to seeing her get started with her team-mates in just under three weeks’ time.”
McPherson’s side will come together for the first time on Monday, 25 October as they build towards the Round 1 clash with Perth Glory on 4 December.
Canberra Add Three More:
Artwork: Canberra United
Canberra United have unveiled goalkeeper Beth Mason-Jones plus Alexia Karrys-Stahl and Mikayla Vidmar for the upcoming A-League Women’s (ALW) season.
Mason-Jones joins Canberra with three years of experience in the ALW, playing for Melbourne Victory from 2016-2019. After taking 15 months away from the game for personal reasons, Beth signed with Victorian NPLW club Alamein United FC in early 2021.
Beth said she can’t wait to get stuck into the Canberra United preseason from October 25.
“I’ve always heard great things about Canberra as a team; the girls, the fans, the environment overall,” Beth said.
“Watching them over the past few seasons I’ve really noticed the fight they have for each other as a team which is something I really value and find really rare. I’m really looking forward to the new challenge ahead.
“Having a fresh slate to work with, a bunch of new players I haven’t ever played with, a new coach and a new training and playing environment is very enticing to me.”
Artwork: Canberra United.
On Thursday, the club added the signings of former Canberra United Academy players, Alexia Karrys-Stahl and Mikayla Vidmar for the upcoming A-League Women’s season.
Mikayla Vidmar has football in the blood. The daughter of former Socceroo legend Tony Vidmar, Mikayla joined Woden Valley SC when she was 12, before being selected into the Canberra United Academy Program. Mikayla has been playing for Adelaide City for two years now and was part of their 2019 Premiership winning team. She has been in excellent form once more this season.
“Being part of the Canberra United Academy, we would always watch the Canberra United games,” Mikayla said.
“We had some girls in the academy who were also in and out of Canberra United, training and playing so they were always girls we looked up to. The environment and atmosphere at the games has always been incredible.
“The support and unity you feel is like nothing else, and it has always been something I wanted to be a part of.”
Alexia Karrys-Stahl also grew up playing in Canberra, with Gungahlin United and the Capital Football SAP Program. She represented the ACT in the PSSA, before being selected into the Canberra United Academy. From there, she was selected into the U17s Young Matildas, for the AFC Championship qualifiers in Malaysia.
“It has always been a goal of mine to represent my home town,” Alexia said.
“The atmosphere is like no other and to score in front of my family and friends would be unreal.
“I’m excited to play with so many familiar faces as well as some new ones. I can’t wait to work with Vicki and all the other CU staff, it’s an absolute privilege.”
